Alexon has lost half of its market value since April, meaning it could be ripe for a takeover bid. Alexon is believed to want a full company sale, but the limited synergies between the footwear and fashion arms of the business is likely to result in the business being split anyway.

Published By Datamonitor

Tesco is comfortably riding out the challenging trading conditions facing UK retailing, recording pre-tax profits of GBP2.95 billion for the 52 weeks to February 28. Although exposure to non-food and the impact of its Discounter brand have dented sales growth, the supermarket's international credentials and ability to diversify into new markets will see it continue to prove a formidable retailer.

Published By Datamonitor

After entering a number of new markets this year, Inditex is poised to enter the Australian and South African markets in 2011. Its plans for expansion, which include introducing global online retail platforms, will ensure that it keeps one step ahead of its international rivals, and will provide an opportunity for rejuvenation in the local clothing markets.

Published By Datamonitor

John Lewis may have been the leading name in the roll call of winners at last week's Verdict Customer Satisfaction Awards, but the Verdict poll of 5,900 consumers also revealed the winning retailers within individual sectors. Verdict's analysts give their insight into why these retailers stood out to their customers.